Last night was the 4th of July.

George and Judy Horny came over about 6:30 p.m. for a “cook-out.” George is my husband, John’s best friend. (You can imagine what happens on our audio caller i.d. when a call comes in from George. It speaks and cites last name then first name.)

It was a terrific meal (beef shish kebabs with lots of veggies; a great salad with mandarin oranges, tomatoes, walnuts, and low-cal raspberry vinegrette; sweet potato fries; homemade apple pie).

After we ate, the guys went fishing. (We live on a small lake called Lake Cecil). George caught a 16+ inch small-mouthed bass, while John kept hooking catfish. Judy took a nap (she hasn’t been well).

The neighborhood fireworks started about 10:00 and lasted until nearly midnight. They were fantastic. Equal to a big-city display. The last volley was awesome.

Unfortunately the humidity locked in the fireworks residue and smoke making it hard to breathe. It really bothered my eyes so I had to head inside.

But what a beautiful night! We had tiki torches lit around the yard and everything reflected in the water. At many of the other homes (there are about 35 residences on the lake), there were large parties. One party featured a bagpiper which carried across the water beautifully.